Freight Forwarding & Incoterms: Key Terms Explained in Detail

Carrier’s haulage refers to inland transportation arranged directly by the shipping line, either from the shipper’s premises to the port or from the port to the consignee’s location. Instead of the shipper arranging a separate trucking or rail provider, the carrier takes full responsibility for the inland leg. This creates a single, coordinated movement from origin to port or port to final destination. It also simplifies communication and reduces the number of parties involved.

When using the carrier’s haulage, the shipping line manages vehicle allocation, scheduling, paperwork, and pickup or delivery arrangements. This helps ensure the inland movement aligns perfectly with the vessel’s schedule. It reduces the risk of missing cut-off times or facing delays caused by miscommunication. Carriers often offer this service for convenience and smoother logistics planning. It benefits shippers who prefer a one-stop solution.

This option is especially useful when shippers want predictable pricing for the entire door-to-port or port-to-door journey. Carrier’s haulage may also provide better reliability in congested or high-volume regions, where carriers have stronger networks. However, it typically offers less flexibility compared to merchant haulage. The shipper has limited control over routing, trucking companies, or special handling instructions.

Overall, the carrier’s haulage makes inland transportation easier by placing responsibility on the shipping line. It reduces coordination efforts and helps maintain a seamless connection between inland and ocean legs. For many businesses, it offers convenience, reliability, and predictable movement of goods from start to finish.